Introduction

Chip Webster was executive coaching long before it was mainstream. Webster spent 26 years at the helm of Vistage Florida, where he lead CEO think tank forums and helped entrepreneurs and business leaders take their businesses to the next level. He is a past recipient of the Vistage International Don Cope Memorial Award, and co-founder of TEC / Vistage Keepers of the Flame. His latest pursuit is Tiger 21, where he leads the Tampa Bay organization for high net worth business leaders and wealth creators.

Years in St. Pete

11

Organizations involved in

The board of Central Florida Urban League, and I coach students from time to time.

What gets you out of bed every day?

Making a difference in peoples’ lives.

Why St. Pete?

I think it’s the coolest town in the country. I tell people I could live anywhere in the world – it might be in a box in New York over a heating grate – but I just think it has the nicest balance of good people and sophisticated arts but not crazy. I grew up in Southern California so I have a bit of a contrast.

What is one habit that you keep?

I work out every day.

Who are some people that influence you?

Several people have made a huge difference in my life. A store manager at Sears when I was in college who got me a job in the headquarters that was a really special program for MBA students and I was just getting my undergrad. That changed the course of my career at Sears.

Red Scott, who was my business partner. He was entrepreneur of the decade in California, so very successful guy. He just taught me how to coach people and he coached me. As the result of our partnership, its been a great ride.

What is one piece of insight - a book, methodology, practice - that you would share with our readers?

I read a lot and there are so many great books. But the most important methodology is to understand that the only sustainable strategic advantage is people. And the whole game of life is about being with people and making a difference in their lives. I believe that we’re here to be angels for each other and to grow.

What is one thing you wish you knew about your work 3 years ago?

This career I just started a year ago. I wish it was easier to find the kind of people I’m looking for, but when find them it’s great.

What’s next?

Headed to Colorado and then Italy, up to Rhode Island, having a great summer. I don’t have any specific business adventure that’s next.